Top Dental Issues in Cats

Biting, hunting, eating toys, grooming, and chewing are only a few of the things cats do with their mouths. The teeth of active cats come into contact with many objects and can develop dental problems as time passes. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings for your cat will help you avoid the issues.

Common Dental Issues in Felines

Breath Problems

In veterinary medicine, the smelly cat’s breath is a common problem. The stinky breath, also called Halitosis, results from numerous oral health issues that range from simple problems with the periodontal or an abscessing tumor. But, a systemic disease such as diabetes or renal disease could trigger Halitosis.

If your cat is experiencing changes in its appetite or has difficulty eating, diarrhea, or vomiting, it’s essential to seek a veterinarian immediately. These are indicators of a more severe problem that requires immediate treatment. It is crucial to discuss your cat’s breath becoming foul with your vet and watch out for other signs of illness.

Stomatitis

Feline stomatitis may be an inevitable condition characterized by severe inflammation and ulceration within the tissues of the mouth cavity (gums cheeks, tongues cheeks, tongue, and more). Certain breeds, such as Himalayans and Persians, are at risk of the condition. It is a problem for felines of all species. It can be present before one year old.

Stomatitis causes the mouths of cats to become extremely red and inflamed. They are unable to get their teeth checked. They usually have less appetite due to the discomfort they experience when eating. In extreme situations, they might be malnourished because of their eating pain.

While minor cases may respond to medical treatment and home care such as brushing, surgical cleaning, removal of the afflicted tissues, tooth extractions, and dental X-rays are crucial to confirm that complete removal of the roots produces the most effective results. Suppose your pet suffers from severe inflammation; you can consult with a trusted vet surgeon and learn if your pet needs surgery. 

Tumors

Oral cancers are pretty common in cats. Unfortunately, the majority of tumors in the oral cavity are cancerous. The mouth of your cat has more than its teeth and gums. Lips, hard and soft palate (roof of the mouth), upper and lower jaw, cheeks, tongue, and mouth floor are part of the mouth. Oral tumors that are malignant and benign can form in any area of your cat’s mouth.

Squamous cell cancer is the most common oral tumor found in felines, accounting for nearly 90 percent of all oral cancers. Adenocarcinomas and fibrosarcomas, as well as Ameloblastomas, are just a few instances of cancers. If possible, surgery may eliminate cancer in a variety of situations. Cancer, as well as the margins around it, must be removed during surgery. The type of cancer determines the extent of surgery and usually requires the removal of portions of the jaw, teeth, or the bone that surrounds it.

Suppose your cat suffers from a tumor; you can browse any website or speak with an expert to assess your cat’s health and determine its candidacy for dental surgery.

Fractures

Cats can be affected by broken teeth (fang) due to fights between cats and other animals, auto accidents, and chewing on challenging things. The nerve could become exposed to the world when the tooth has been damaged and damages enamel (hard enamel, a mineralized layer that protects tooth enamel) and dentin (bony tissue that lies beneath the enamel). 

Cats frequently suffer from fractured teeth (fang) due to fights, car accidents, and gnawing on hard items. There are many methods to repair damaged teeth. For example, root canal therapy, vital pulp therapy extraction, and the tooth are all possible alternatives to address the issue. The issue could result in the tooth becoming sensitive and painful when there is no treatment.

If your pet is suffering from fractured teeth, you can speak with a professional cat dentist or browse this link for more information. It is crucial to have your pet undergo an annual examination by a veterinarian or at least every year. It should take a complete oral exam.